ASIA/MYANMAR - Catholics in Taunggyi offer a warm welcome to their new Auxiliary Bishop

Taunggyi (Agenzia Fides) – The entire Catholic community of the Diocese of Taunggyi rejoiced at the recent consecration of their new Auxiliary Bishop, Bishop Basilio A. Thai.
In town for the event was the Apostolic Delegate to Malaysia, Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio, who was warmly welcomed by the diocese on the occasion. Present at the consecration ceremony were Archbishop Mathias U. Shwa of Taunggyi, and many Bishops from the other dioceses of Myanmar, gathered together to share in this important moment for the local Church and for the entire Church in Myanmar.
The celebration was also attended by 207 priests, 250 religious, 100 seminarians, 100 catechists, over 3,000 laity, and even members of other Christian denominations.
In his homily, the Apostolic Delegate, which presided the Mass, reminded the faithful of the example of Saint Paul, in this the year dedicated to him, inviting all those present to become apostles in the spirit of the Apostle to the Gentiles. Apostolate is a task for all Christians, in their different states of life, called to be witnesses of God's love, Archbishop Pennacchio said.
Addressing the new Bishop, and referring to his motto “Koinonia,” the Apostolic Delegate focused on the importance of authentic communion with God and with our brothers, recalling that the fount of this love is the Eucharist: this is what will give the Bishop the missionary energy of the bravest of apostles.
Addressing the community once more, Archbishop Pennacchio exhorted them to welcome, listen to, and follow their new Pastor, emphasizing the importance of full collaboration among Bishops, priests, religious, and laity in a community. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 17/12/2008)